Diabetes Wellness

November 8, 2011

Diabetes can feel overwhelming because of the unending demands of self management. Understanding how to control your blood sugar levels, what the latest medications are, and how to alter your diet, can feel so overbearing and therefore most people do not manage diabetes very well.

The good news is that diabetes distress can be managed and reduced if a few important things are kept in mind. Below are a few tips that include some facts about physical activity and how to incorporate it in to your daily routine. Not every tip will work for every person, because people with diabetes have different styles and preferences, but the ideas underlying these tips are applicable to most people with diabetes.
• Consult your health care provider. Even though Dr.’s visits are so short in time, it is important to bring up feelings of distress so that the physician can offer other options and coping mechanisms. One might be to incorporate physical activity into your life. Ask what types of activity would be safe for you as you get started. You want your diabetes management program to work and your Dr. plays a big role in making that happen.
• Try to do some physical activity each day. If you can’t, aim for 3-4 times a week, 30-60 minutes a day. If you need to work up to this time, that is perfectly fine. Even starting with 10 minutes a day is better than doing nothing. Find something you enjoy doing. That will be important in motivating you to keep going.
• Watch your step. Foot problems are common in people with diabetes. Make sure your shoes fit well and are right for your exercise. Also, wearing athletic socks will help you avoid blisters and calluses that could lead to infection.
• Check your blood sugar level before and after you exercise. Do not work out if your level is too high or too low.
• Talk to family members, friends, and others with diabetes. Seek out others who are understanding about diabetes and are willing to listen and are maybe going through a similar situation. Find an exercise buddy that will support your efforts in physical activity. If your friend/spouse has diabetes as well, providing encouragement to each other helps you both stick to a new routine.
• Do things one at a time. When distressed, people with diabetes attempt to tackle all issues head-on without much long term success. Sharply reducing calories, doubling physical activity, or purchasing a fancy blood glucose meter in hopes that your diabetes will be under control usually backfires, and causes even more distress. Set realistic goals and reward yourself for all accomplishments.
• Take responsibility for your diabetes. Acceptance is the first step. You may never be able to entirely get rid of the disease altogether, but it is perfectly manageable and you can live a long healthy life with diabetes. You can still eat the same foods, and engage in the dame activities as anybody else. Lifestyle changes may need to be made, but with guidance, support and self control, management of diabetes is a real achievable goal.

If you or someone you know has diabetes and needs help with starting a plan for physical activity, please contact me. I would be happy to help! 616-956-8003 ext. 318.